When you think about chefs who have changed a generation, you may think of culinary gourmand James Beard and the works of Julia Child. Another pioneer to consider is Edna Lewis, the mother of soul food.
Earning the title, "The Grande Dame of Southern Cooking," Chef Lewis was among the first African American women from the South to write a cookbook. Honoring seasonal and local ingredients of the region, her work as an author and a teacher elevated Southern cuisine to the culinary conversation. Celebrating her legacy, the Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) is screening the documentary, "Finding Edna Lewis." Following the film, there will be a discussion hosted by award-winning writer and producer of the documentary Debra Freeman and James Beard Award-winning writer, producer and curator Osayi Endolyn. Together, they will dive into the places and people that shaped Ms. Lewis, whose influence is still felt today.
Tickets are $30 and include access to MOFAD's current exhibition, "Flavor: The World to Your Brain" from 6pm to 7pm. Brooklyn's Gage & Tollner, where Lewis once served as executive chef, will serve Lewis' Buttermilk Biscuits alongside beverages. Reserve your spot here.